Storm damage and downed power lines

Our vegetation management program helps minimize storm damage and power outages. However, the program does not clean up trees and limbs downed by storms. When emergency efforts to restore power require the removal of trees or limbs from power lines, the trees or limbs are left in as safe a manner as conditions allow.

Cleaning up debris left by storms or emergency restoration work is the responsibility of property owners.

Important safety note: Downed power lines are serious safety hazards. Adults should remind young children to stay away from all power lines - and anything touching the lines. Downed power lines may still carry electricity and coming into contact with live current is life threatening. Report downed power lines immediately to your local police or fire department and to us. To report a power line down, call our Contact Center immediately.

For more electrical tips and guidelines, visit the other pages in our Electrical Safety Get Help With section.

Identifying types of lines

Identifying power, telephone, and cable television lines on a utility pole can be confusing. As a general rule of thumb, electric lines are usually located at the top of the pole, furthest from the ground. Cable TV and telephone lines typically run closer to the ground, below power lines. However, all downed lines should be considered dangerous. Should you see any wire on the ground, stay well clear of it.

When outages occur, we are only responsible for restoring electric service to our customers. If other utility services such as telephone or cable TV are also affected, please contact those companies to have services restored.

(05/31/07) 

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